Muscle tightness and soreness can make even simple movements feel difficult. Whether you are training hard, recovering from an injury, or dealing with stubborn tension that will not go away, dry needling can help release those tight spots and restore normal movement.
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At Restorative Health and Performance in Dallas, chiropractor Dr. Mary Davis uses dry needling to target areas of muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve performance for athletes and active adults.
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What Is Dry Needling?
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Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that uses very thin, sterile needles to reach trigger points within muscles. These tight or knotted areas can restrict motion, cause pain, or create imbalances that affect the way you move.
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When the needle is inserted into the trigger point, it helps release muscle tension, increase blood flow, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response. The result is less pain, improved mobility, and faster recovery.
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How Dry Needling Helps Athletes And Active Adults
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As a Dallas sports chiropractor, Dr. Mary often incorporates dry needling into treatment for athletes who need targeted relief. It is especially effective for chronic tightness, muscle strains, and overuse injuries caused by repetitive training or poor movement mechanics.
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Dry needling can help with:
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Shoulder and neck tension
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Lower back pain
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Hip and glute tightness
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IT band and hamstring discomfort
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Calf and Achilles soreness
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Recovery after intense workouts or competition
For many athletes, dry needling becomes a valuable tool for recovery and performance maintenance.
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What To Expect During Your Visit
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Your visit begins with a discussion about your pain, movement patterns, and training routine. Dr. Mary will assess which muscles are contributing to your discomfort and determine if dry needling is appropriate for you.
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The procedure is quick and most patients describe the sensation as mild. Some muscle twitching or brief soreness may occur, which usually resolves within a day or two. After treatment, Dr. Mary may recommend stretching, soft tissue therapy, or active rehab to support your recovery.
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Why Patients Choose Dry Needling At Restorative Health And Performance
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Dr. Mary combines dry needling with chiropractic care, cupping, and rehab to address both the source of pain and the surrounding movement issues. This integrated approach helps patients get faster, longer-lasting results.
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Every session is one-on-one and focused on your specific goals, whether that is training harder, recovering faster, or simply moving without pain.
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Dry Needling FAQs
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Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?
No. Although both use thin needles, dry needling is based on modern anatomy and muscle science rather than traditional Chinese medicine. The goal is to release trigger points and restore normal muscle function, not to balance energy pathways.
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Does dry needling hurt?
Most patients feel only a brief, mild discomfort or muscle twitch when the needle reaches the trigger point. Some soreness can occur afterward, similar to post-workout muscle fatigue, and usually fades within a day or two.
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How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on the severity of your condition and how your body responds. Some people notice improvement after one or two visits, while others benefit from a short series of treatments combined with rehab and soft tissue work.
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Is dry needling safe?
Yes. Dr. Mary is certified and trained in dry needling. She uses sterile, single-use needles and follows strict safety and hygiene protocols to ensure a comfortable experience.
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Can I work out after dry needling?
Light movement or stretching is encouraged, but it’s best to avoid intense exercise for the rest of the day. Dr. Mary will give you specific guidance based on your situation.
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Schedule Your Dry Needling Appointment In Dallas
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If tight muscles or lingering soreness are holding you back, dry needling can help you feel and perform your best. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mary Davis at Restorative Health and Performance in Dallas to experience how precise, targeted care can make a difference.
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Call or text today to get started.